What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins develop when veins lose their elasticity, stretch or become enlarged. This causes valves within the veins to leak, allowing blood to flow backwards. The vein swells with extra blood and, over time, this causes further damage to the valves, making the situation worse.

Extra blood and fluid in the swollen vein can start to seep into the surrounding tissue and this gives rise to symptoms of varicose veins, such as the sensation of tiredness or heaviness in the legs, and swollen ankles. If the condition is long-standing, tissue cells can become damaged, giving rise to complications.